People cannot afford basic check-ups

The UK's population is neglecting its health due to the cost of treatment.

Results released by Westfield Health and HSF Health Plan showed 48% of the public do not have regular eye tests and 6% have never had their sight assessed while half have not received dental care from the NHS in the last two years.

Westfield Health found half of those neglecting their eyesight cited cost as the main reason for doing so.

Jill Davies, deputy chief executive of Westfield Health, said taking care of employees' eyesight was a legal requirement following legislation set by the Health and Safety Executive.